We requested email interviews with all Board candidates and sent them all the same questions. We are posting them in the order received. Here are Steven Muro’s responses, received July 5.
1. Are you a shareholder? If not, why do you want this unpaid job?
Yes, I am a shareholder. I believe that every volunteer director should be a Crestview shareholder, making decisions that impact their own community, neighbors and themselves. Why let a non-shareholder make decisions that will impact us but not themself? Our current board is comprised solely of shareholders.
2. How many hours per average month do you expect to spend on Crestview matters?
Roughly 20 hours a month.
3. In the past year, how many Board meetings have you missed?
One
4. Do you plan to serve at least one full year if you are elected or reelected?
Yes
5. Will you make your email address and/or phone number available to Shareholders for direct two-way communications on Crestview policy matters?
I have shared my contact information with shareholders since first running for a position on the board. I receive calls and emails from shareholders all the time. Working on behalf of shareholders is a primary reason I ran for the position.
6. In the past year, what has the Board done well, and what improvements are desirable?
The company is in a much stronger financial position than it was a year ago. Our communication and relationships with other local water districts and associations has greatly improved and will provide tangible benefits for all shareholders. Our work with shareholder-based committees and research with local engineering firms has strengthened the company by infusing shareholder feedback with fact-based information. This has benefited, and will continue to benefit, the board, staff and shareholders.
7. What are your thoughts about at least one of Crestview’s long-term challenges, such as shrinking groundwater allocations, aging infrastructure, technology, finances, governance, urbanization, disaster preparedness, climate change, etc.?
The company must continue to focus on those areas we can oversee and control, such as hardening our infrastructure, updating our technology and security systems, working with other water districts to ensure water redundancy/availability during times of need, and maintaining relationships with governing bodies and associations. In essence, building a company that is sustainable, forward thinking, and beneficial to all shareholders.
8. What else would you like Shareholders to know about how you plan to help Crestview?
When I first ran for a position on the board my goal was to ensure that the company was financially stable, overseen by a board that is actively involved, utilizing modern technology and business practices and receiving ongoing feedback from shareholders. My vision remains the same for the year ahead. Your current board has an exceptional blend of directors, with each member bringing valuable talents, experiences and knowledge to the company. This has resulted in great strides of improvement – but there is still more work to do and projects to accomplish.
I also want to continue to encourage all shareholders to attend the monthly board meetings and share your thoughts with board members. Consider being on a shareholder committee or running for a position on the board. Like all organizations, the infusion of new thoughts and ideas, mixed with real-world experience is paramount to a well run company. Get involved!
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